POLYTAG and DataLase have teamed up to enable retailers and brands to apply GS1-compliant smart QR codes across a broader range of packaging materials.
Combining Polytag’s QR code management platform with DataLase’s coding and marking technology, the partnership is designed to bring together the intelligence behind connected packaging and the ability to deploy it at production-line speed.
The result is a solution that enables GS1-compliant QR codes to be applied across a range of packaging formats where deployment has historically been more challenging, including plastics, films, foils, metals and coated surfaces. This allows brands to accelerate connected packaging initiatives across more of their products, meet emerging regulatory requirements such as the introduction of Digital Product Passports, and deliver richer digital experiences for consumers through a single QR code.
DataLase’s laser-reactive coatings are applied during label production simultaneously with the artwork. On the production line, a laser activates a pigment within the coating to produce a permanent, indelible QR code, eliminating the need for additional ink or consumables.
“For connected packaging to truly scale, brands need to be able to deploy advanced QR codes across every packaging format,” explained Alice Rackley, CEO of Polytag. “This partnership is making that possible at production-line speed.”
Clare Lewis, CEO at DataLase, added, “Retailers and brands are navigating new product regulations while simultaneously looking for new ways to engage their customers. Together with Polytag, we’re helping manufacturers transform their labels into something genuinely interactive – with complete flexibility and total confidence in the printing process.”
Through a single smart QR code, brands can direct consumers to landing pages containing product-specific information, care instructions, best-before dates, or marketing content, with the ability to update that content in real time via the Polytag platform, and provide multi-language and location-aware content, eliminating the need for new packaging runs.
This is also tipped to reduce food waste and improve product safety. By carrying batch, expiry date and serial number information, GS1-compliant QR codes enable more accurate stock rotation, faster batch-level recalls, and greater transparency.
